DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Hammer Drill Driver Brushless, Heavy Duty 1/2", 3-Speed, Tool Only (DCD996B)

Why it's worth it

This is DeWalt's heavy-duty XR hammer drill: brushless, three speeds, and a nitro-carburized metal chuck that holds bits without slipping. If you drill into brick or block, or bore wide holes through framing, it does work the kit's drill simply can't.

Anchoring a handrail into a concrete stoop is where an ordinary drill quits. Hammer mode adds rapid forward blows to the rotation, which is what actually breaks up masonry ahead of the bit. For a few dozen holes in brick, block or a basement wall — fence brackets, shelf anchors, a mailbox post — this is the right level of tool without stepping up to a dedicated rotary hammer.

The three-speed metal transmission is what separates this from a homeowner drill. Low speed trades RPM for grunt, which is what you want with a hole saw or a spade bit in a 2x10. Top speed spins small twist bits fast enough to cut cleanly instead of burning. The middle setting handles most driving. A one-speed drill makes you compromise on every one of those jobs.

From our review of 7 dewalt power tools

What we like

• +Anchoring a handrail into a concrete stoop is where an ordinary drill quits
• +The three-speed metal transmission is what separates this from a homeowner drill
• +The brushless motor matters most on long days
• +The details hold up. The 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck is metal with carbide inserts, so big bits don't walk loose under load

What to know

• –It's heavy and bulky at about four pounds bare, and that's before you clip on a big battery
• –Hammer mode is hungry